Elk Grove, California (February 8, 2026) — A Sacramento County family is mourning the loss of Daniel Sanchez, 61, who was killed in a hit-and-run crash while changing a tire along the side of the road in Elk Grove. The fatal incident has sparked outrage and heartbreak after the suspect was arrested and later released on bail, leaving the family grappling not only with loss but with unanswered questions about accountability.
Sanchez was struck and killed while outside his vehicle, according to family members. Authorities later identified Kushmit Singh as the driver allegedly responsible for the hit-and-run.
Incident Details: According to reporting cited by National Today and KCRA, Daniel Sanchez had pulled over to change a tire when he was hit by a passing vehicle. The driver fled the scene, leaving Sanchez fatally injured.
Detectives later located the suspected vehicle inside a garage belonging to Kushmit Singh. Singh was arrested in connection with the hit-and-run and made his first court appearance on February 9, 2026. Despite the severity of the allegations, he was released on bail, a development that has devastated Sanchez’s family.
Sanchez’s children and loved ones have spoken publicly about the emotional toll of the loss. His 11-year-old son, Anthony, shared that his father will never see him graduate or grow up. His older son, Andres, a high school senior, described the loss as surreal and said it has deeply affected how he views his own future.
Family members emphasized that learning the crash was a hit-and-run made the tragedy even harder to bear, compounding their grief with anger and disbelief.
Investigation and Court Proceedings: Kushmit Singh is scheduled to return to court for further arraignment on February 26, 2026. The case has raised concerns among the Sanchez family about public safety and whether the justice system adequately protects victims’ families in fatal hit-and-run cases.
While authorities have not publicly detailed all charges pending against Singh, the investigation into the collision and the circumstances surrounding Sanchez’s death remains part of an active criminal case.
Legal Considerations: Fatal hit-and-run cases often involve both criminal prosecution and potential civil liability. Leaving the scene of a crash that results in death is considered a serious offense under California law, and convictions can carry substantial prison time.
From a civil standpoint, the Sanchez family might have valid grounds to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This can help cover funeral costs, compensate for lost financial support, and address the significant emotional distress experienced by the surviving children and loved ones.
My deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and all loved ones of Daniel Sanchez as they continue to mourn him.
Source: National Today